While floating toys can help make your young one more willing to take a bath, it's important not to allow those same toys to become a health hazard for your child. The wet environment of a bath can encourage mold and bacteria growth in the crevices and holes of some toys. Careful regular cleaning of the toys will ensure your child's bath time is enjoyable, safe and healthy.
Dishwashing Method
Step 1
Squeeze toys that have holes to remove all of the bath water from their interiors. Use an old toothbrush to scrub the holes and crevices of the toys.
Step 2
Place toys in the top shelf of a dishwasher. If you believe a toy may be too thin or fragile to withstand the heat of the dishwasher, do not include it.
Step 3
Fill the soap reservoir with 1/4 cup of vinegar. Run the dishwasher with an air dry finish. Repeat once a week.
Soaking Method
Step 1
Squeeze the toys that contain holes to remove excess bath water from their interiors. Scrub crevices and hole openings with a toothbrush.
Step 2
Fill a bowl, bucket or the sink with 1 part bleach or vinegar to 10 parts water. Add more water if needed to fully submerge the toys. Let toys soak for 10 minutes. Rinse the toys with water.
Step 3
Wash the toys with soap to ensure the removal of all vinegar or bleach. Rinse again and allow to air dry. Repeat once a week.
Tips and Warnings
- Purchase bath toys that are firm, nonporous and without holes to reduce the opportunities for mold and bacteria to grow. Remove toys from the water immediately after bath time is over.
- Don't mix bleach with vinegar, ammonia or other chemicals which may create hazardous chemical reactions.
Things You'll Need
- Old toothbrush
- Dishwasher
- Vinegar
- Bleach
- Bowl, bucket or sink
- Soap
